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Halpern returns to Caps, signs 1-yr deal for $825K

ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) - The Washington Capitals have opened free agency by bringing back a familiar face, signing former captain Jeff Halpern to a one-year deal worth $825,000.

Halpern was signed Friday in a move that adds needed depth to the center position.

The 35-year-old forward is a native of nearby Potomac, Md., who made the Capitals as an undrafted free agent out of Princeton in 1999. He played six seasons in Washington and was captain during the 2005-06 season. He has since played for Dallas, Tampa Bay, Los Angeles and Montreal.

Halpern has 142 goals and 200 assists in his NHL career. He had 11 goals and 15 assists in 72 games with the Canadiens last season.

He has also represented the United States at five world championships.